How to Grip a Knuckleball

One of the most effective, and most frustrating, pitches in baseball is the knuckleball, which is a misnomer since the knuckles don’t really touch the ball. Wind resistance causes the ball to wobble through the air at a leisurely 65 mph in an impossible to predict manner. The pitch is difficult to throw, nearly impossible to control, tough to catch, and when thrown properly confusing to hit. The secret to throwing a knuckleball is to eliminate rotation on the ball, and it all begins with the proper grip.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

Things You’ll Need:

• Baseball
• Baseball Glove
• Catcher or backstop

How to Grip a Knuckleball

1. Put your non-throwing hand in your baseball glove. Put the baseball into the glove.
2. Arrange the baseball so the seams are parallel with the fingers of your throwing hand. Press the fingernails of your index, middle, and ring fingers into the baseball just below the seams. Allow your thumb to wrap around the ball in its natural line.
3. Allow your pinky finger to hang loose off the baseball. Grip the ball with your index, middle, and ring fingers and your thumb. Allow the baseball to rest against the palm of your throwing hand.
4. Throw the knuckleball by pushing the baseball forward with all three fingers and thumb to prevent spin.

Tips & Warnings

• Fingernails should be trimmed short.